Transform

Transform is an interdisciplinary, interactive series of classes focused on skill building for the business of architecture. This intensive program centers on transformational leadership, utilizing strategic, tactical, and operational skill sets designed to affect change in an architect’s individual career and their firm.

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AIA Mentorship Program

About Transform

AIA Chicago Transform is an interdisciplinary, interactive series of classes focused on skill building for the business of architecture. This intensive program centers on transformational leadership, utilizing strategic, tactical and operational skill sets designed to affect change in an architect’s individual career and within their firm. The program also serves as a premier network and relationship building platform through participation in Growth Groups.

Co-sponsored and powered by the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (GS10KSB) Chicago program, and in partnership with Harold Washington College, this collaboration brings award-winning faculty to AIA Chicago members and AEC professionals. AIA Chicago Transform focuses the business curriculum offered to GS10KSB participants through the lens of the business of architecture. 

Each of the four “modules” in the series features interactive activities, speakers, panelists and educators from within the AEC community, providing real-world integration of business skills with leadership fundamentals.

The program is centered upon a 5-year personal/professional development plan, providing an armature for implementing lessons learned and deploying entrepreneurial tools for immediate use within both large and small firms. Each session will focus on both new content and the application of previously taught skills. All participants will be expected to report on how they have applied learned skills to affect change, allowing their peers to share feedback about that applied growth.  

Ideal Registrant

Sole proprietors, managers of small or medium-size firms, and professionals on the path to management and/or firm ownership are ideal candidates for Transform. 

Register for the Course

Registration Opens: Thursday, July 13, 2023
Registration Closes:
Friday, August 25, 2023

AIA Member Cost: $650
Non-AIA Member Cost:
$950

Registration Closed for 2023

"I really enjoyed the Transform program and kind of feel like it should be mandatory for anyone seeking to be a solo practitioner or seeking a leadership position within their firm."

Terran Wilson, AIA; Principal at LBBA

2023 Schedule

3.0 Learning Units

  • Assess your effectiveness as the leader. 
  • Enhance awareness of factors that influence your leadership style. 
  • Identify your personal value system. 
  • Create a mission and vision for your career.

Transform Instructors

Headshot of Rashid Carter

Rashid Carter

Harold Washington College, Business and Economics
Headshot of Brandon Pendleton

Brandon Pendleton

Harold Washington College, Business
Dr. C Adam Callery

Dr. C. Adam Callery

Sagesse Lumiere, Managing Director
Headshot of Dr. Rhonda Henderson

Dr. Rhonda Henderson

Olive-Harvey College, Business

Transform Co-Chairs

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Iana Kolev, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP

Managing Director, PALMA
Matthew McGrane headshot

Matthew McGrane, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP, CPHC

Senior Project Architect, LBBA
Catherine Varnas headshot

Catherine Varnas

Senior Job Captain, BWBR

Thank you to our Transform Sponsor:

ARUP
HPZS

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